Incumbent Worker Training Grants
Incumbent Worker Training Grants support Rhode Island employers’ training of current employees to build skills, adapt to changing business needs, and help workers keep their jobs and advance.
Funder: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
Due Dates: Rolling (apply at least three weeks before training)
Funding Amounts: 50%–100% reimbursement; up to $25,000 per employer per calendar year and $5,000 per trainee per year
Summary: Reimburses eligible training costs to help Rhode Island employers upskill current employees and support their career advancement.
Key Information: Employers must be approved suppliers in Ocean State Procures before applying.
Description
The Governor’s Workforce Board administers this Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training program with funding from the RI Job Development Fund. It supports continuing education and upskilling for current employees, including long-term and recently hired workers. Its goals are to help employers remain competitive as technologies, techniques, and markets change, and to help workers maintain employment and advance in their careers.
Training must show a clear benefit to the employer and employees. Qualifying purposes include responding to changed regulations or industry practices, pursuing new market opportunities, preparing employees for higher-paying roles, or earning transferable industry credentials. Provider-led English as a Second Language (ESL) training that supports workplace communication and job-related language skills is also eligible.
